The Audi S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) 3.0 TDI V6 (341 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and efficiency within the Audi S4 lineup. Introduced in late 2020 and continuing through 2023, this variant occupied a significant position as a diesel-powered performance wagon, primarily aimed at the European market where diesel engines remained highly popular. It builds upon the B9 generation S4 Avant, benefitting from the mid-life facelift that brought updated styling and enhanced technology. This specific configuration combined a potent turbocharged diesel V6 engine with a mild-hybrid system and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive, paired with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (341 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.2-7.5 l/100 km (32.7 – 31.4 US mpg, 39.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.9 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 188-197 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 381.5 Nm/tonne |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 0.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 10 kg (22.05 lbs) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 8 kW |
| Power | 341 Hp @ 3800-3950 rpm |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1750-3250 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA897evo3 / DMKC |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger and Electric Powered Compressor, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.5 l (16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1435 l (50.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1433 mm (56.42 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1039 mm (40.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.8° |
| Departure angle | 12.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive all four wheels, mixed mode operation |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 375 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) 3.0 TDI V6 (341 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic is a high-performance variant of the Audi A4 Avant (B9) model. Production began in November 2020 and continued until 2023. This model was primarily sold in Europe, where diesel engines were favored for their fuel efficiency and torque. The facelift brought styling updates, improved technology, and refinements to the engine and transmission. Positioned as a premium performance wagon, it offered a balance between sporty driving dynamics and the practicality of a station wagon. It sat above the standard A4 Avant and below the more focused RS4 Avant in Audi’s performance lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this S4 Avant lies the EA897evo3 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the code DMKC. This engine benefits from advanced technologies like a twin-scroll turbocharger and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,500 bar. The engine also incorporates an Electric Powered Compressor (EPC) to mitigate turbo lag and improve low-end responsiveness. The mild-hybrid system, utilizing a 48V lithium-ion battery and a belt-driven starter-generator, enables features like extended engine-off coasting, regenerative braking, and smoother start-stop operation. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is specifically tuned for quick and precise shifts, and features a torque converter lockup clutch for improved efficiency. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized to deliver strong acceleration while maintaining comfortable cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 341 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.0 TDI engine, combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, result in impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 4.5 seconds, and the car feels responsive in various driving situations. The tiptronic transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, although some drivers may prefer the more direct engagement of a manual gearbox. The quattro system ensures excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the petrol-powered S4 variants, the TDI offers superior fuel economy and a broader torque curve, making it well-suited for long-distance driving and towing. However, it lacks the high-revving excitement of the gasoline engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) 3.0 TDI came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, stainless steel pedal caps, and S-specific exterior styling cues. The infotainment system featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with Audi’s MMI navigation plus, and a fully digital instrument cluster (Audi Virtual Cockpit) was also standard. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive suspension, panoramic sunroof, and various driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 Avant features a sport-tuned suspension with independent multi-link setups at both the front and rear. The suspension geometry and damping characteristics are optimized for a balance between comfort and handling. Brakes consist of ventilated discs all around, with larger front discs (375mm) compared to the standard A4 Avant. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is calibrated to allow for a degree of controlled oversteer, enhancing the driving experience. The car’s weight distribution is nearly balanced, contributing to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S4 Avant 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was often compared to other high-performance wagons, such as the BMW 3 Series Touring and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate. The TDI variant offered a compelling alternative to the petrol-powered S4, particularly for drivers who prioritized fuel economy and torque. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the aural excitement of the gasoline engines. In terms of reliability, the EA897 engine family is generally considered robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and particulate filter.
Legacy
The Audi S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) 3.0 TDI V6 (341 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic represents a high point in the development of diesel-powered performance wagons. While diesel engines are becoming less common in the performance segment, this variant remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly in Europe. The EA897 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity and reliability. The combination of performance, practicality, and efficiency makes this S4 Avant a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a versatile and capable performance machine.
